Green facades for data centers: enhancing sustainability and performance

As data centers rapidly grow in size and energy consumption, the need for sustainable building strategies is more urgent than ever. One of the most effective and visually integrated solutions is the use of green facades for data centers, also referred to in some cases as living walls. These systems enhance energy efficiency, support biodiversity, reduce the urban heat island effect, and help meet EU environmental regulations.

This article highlights the technical, environmental, and architectural advantages of green facade systems designed specifically for high-performance data center facilities.

The role of green facades for data centers

Data centers are under growing pressure from governments, investors, and local communities to lower carbon emissions and demonstrate greater ecological responsibility. In this context, green facades for data centers are not merely a visual improvement, but a multifunctional building envelope strategy with measurable benefits.

Key benefits of green facades for data centers include:

• • Thermal performance
    Plant coverage reduces solar gain and surface temperatures, lowering the cooling load on mechanical systems and improving Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE).

• • Noise mitigation
    Vegetation absorbs and deflects noise from generators, HVAC systems, and other mechanical equipment, enhancing external sound insulation. 

• • Biodiversity support
    Living walls can be designed to attract pollinators, birds, and native plant species, increasing on-site ecological value and contributing to biodiversity net gain.

• • Aesthetic and social value
    Greening industrial facades helps data centers blend into urban or rural environments, often improving public perception and reducing resistance during the permitting process.

• • Regulatory compliance
    Green facades support alignment with EU Green Deal goals, zoning requirements, and ESG frameworks, and may contribute to green building certifications such as BREEAM or LEED.

Technical considerations for green facades on data centers

1.) Substrate type and plant selection 

The choice of substrate, such as mineral wool, foam, or soil, affects both plant health and insulation performance. Soil-based systems like WallPlanter support deep-rooted vegetation that provides strong ecological benefits and reliable year-round coverage. Modular cassette systems like MobiPanel, which feature integrated irrigation and are lightweight, are ideal for façade retrofits or installations with structural load limitations.

Plant species should be selected based on:

– Drought tolerance
– Wind resistance
– Local ecological value
– Maintenance needs 

2.) Mounting systems and structural compatibility 

Façade greening systems must integrate seamlessly with insulated sandwich panels, rainscreens, or concrete cladding, without compromising the building envelope. MobiPanel is engineered for direct mounting onto most sandwich panels, eliminating the need for secondary substructures and simplifying installation.

When space allows, systems like WallPlanter can be installed up to 12 inches (30 cm) away from the façade to promote ventilation and improve plant resilience.

3.) Fire safety and wind certification 

Data centers operate under mission-critical conditions, making regulatory compliance non-negotiable. All living wall components must be certified for:

– EN 13501-1 fire classification
– Local and regional wind-load standards
– Corrosion resistance for irrigation systems and fasteners 

Both WallPlanter and MobiPanel have been independently tested for fire safety and wind performance, ensuring suitability for high-risk, high-reliability facilities.

4.) Irrigation and lifecycle maintenance 

Efficient irrigation is essential for plant health and system sustainability. MobiPanel features smart irrigation technology to minimize water use, making it the most water-efficient solution in its category. Maintenance procedures must allow for non-intrusive access, especially on façades adjacent to server halls or secure zones.

We support operators with standardized O&M plans and detailed guidance for annual inspections, plant replacement cycles, and seasonal maintenance.

Environmental compliance and European regulations 

European environmental policies, including the EU Green Deal, Biodiversity Strategy, and various local urban greening mandates, now directly impact data center permitting and planning.

Green facades and living walls help developers meet: 

• • Urban greening requirements and zoning overlays

• • Air quality improvement and microclimate mitigation standards

• • ESG reporting metrics for infrastructure portfolios

In jurisdictions where planning approval is conditional on environmental contribution, facade greening can be a decisive compliance strategy. 

WallPlanter and MobiPanel: Two proven Systems 

WallPlanter – soil-based green facade system

• • Deep-rooted planting for enhanced ecological value and resilience

• • Natural substrate supports a wide range of species and pollinators

• • Optional 12-inch (30cm) façade offset improves airflow and planting depth

• • Ideal for biodiversity-focused projects and dense vertical vegetation

• • Fire-rated and wind-tested, suitable for critical infrastructure environments

MobiPanel – lightweight living wall cassette system

• • Fast installation on sandwich panel and concrete façades

• • Integrated smart irrigation system minimizes water usage

• • The most water-efficient system in its category

• • Modular and scalable, suitable for small areas or full facade coverage

• • Fire-rated and wind-certified, backed by robust technical documentation 

Why data centers should choose green facades 

Meet us at DCD Connect London

We’re showcasing our green façade and living wall solutions at DCD Connect London 2025, the leading event for data center design and innovation. Visit our booth to discover how our green facades for data centers can support your sustainability, compliance, and operational objectives.

Looking for advice on green solutions? We’re happy to think along with you.

Submit your details, and one of our specialists will reach out to offer technical support or discuss your project requirements.

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